Matchup Overview:
The Devils take on the Chicago Blackhawks tonight at the Prudential Center. The Devils are on their first win streak of the season. Last contest was their best offensive output of the season as they defeated the Coyotes 5-3. The Devils also gave up a 3 goal lead that game but thanks to Taylor Hall and Travis Zajac they were still able to win.
The Blackhawks have lost 2 of their last 3 games. They have struggled early this season and don’t look anything like the dynastical powerhouse of seasons past. They are hoping to turn their fortunes around and get something started versus the Devils.
Keith Kinkaid will get his first start of the season this game. It will be important for Kinkaid to show that the Devils made the right decision keeping him as the back up.
It will also be the season debut for Nick Lappin. Lappin has had success in Albany this season and will hopefully get in the line up to prove what he can bring to the NHL level.
Keys to the Game:
The Devils are certainly getting their moneys worth out of Taylor Hall. He’s contributed 5 goals through 6 games. The Devils do need to get some goal support from other players. A more balanced attack coupled with the goal scoring of Hall could lead to this offense maybe rising out of the bottom of the NHL standings.
Players to Watch:
Pavel Zacha is once again my player to watch. He’s gained the coach’s trust and has been moved to the first line alongside Taylor Hall. Zacha is bound to get his first goal sooner rather than later.
Richard Panik is in the running right now for the Rocket Richard trophy. Coming into this game Panik has 6 goals in 7 games. Look for him to be a threat to continue his hot streak versus Keith Kinkaid.
Prediction:
With the Devils coming into this game hot and the Blackhawks coming in cold it would be easy to say the Devils should win this game. Yet with no Schneider in net and the defense still suspect at times I think they will have trouble containing the offensive talent of Kane, Panarin, and of course Panik.
Devils lose 4-2